Worcestershire’s Library Service at Home (LSAH) is a volunteer-run service that selects and delivers books directly to the homes of people who are unable to visit a library for health, mobility, or caring reasons. 

Libraries Unlocked encourages greater use of libraries by community organisations, with many taking advantage of extended opening hours and free room hire  to introduce new community-led events.

In 2024, 269 library volunteers generously gifted over 800 hours of their combined time to make 0ver 1800 Library Service at Home visits and deliveries to 178 customers across the county.

Nina explains how the Library Service at Home is much more to her than just a convenient book delivery service; helping her to overcome the barriers and challenges that come with poor health and making a real difference to her quality of life.

Nina’s Story

“Having the books delivered is truly a blessing for me. I rely on these books and audiobooks to help me manage my health conditions. My vision struggles make it difficult for me to read, so I receive six large print books and six audiobooks every month. The audiobooks have such a positive impact. When I have an asthma attack at night, I can simply put one on and let the soothing voice help me relax and drift back to sleep. These books are not just an escape, they help me cope with pain, ease my stress, and bring me comfort when I need it the most.”

“I look forward to their visit every month. But I know there must be others, even more isolated than I am, who look forward to it even more. For those of us with mobility issues, it’s a connection to the outside world, something that feels so precious.”

“Books have always been important to me. I've always loved to read, and the thought of being cut off from that would be devastating. This service is invaluable, it helps me manage both my pain and my stress while giving me the opportunity to escape into a world of stories. It makes a real difference to my life.”

“Being housebound and an avid reader all my life, I couldn’t get to my local library. Service at Home has made my life bearable once more. Every day, I can sit down and read to my heart’s content. It’s truly wonderful!”

“The service is an essential part of my pain management and relaxation routine. It helps me cope with my long-term condition, enabling me to do more and enjoy life again.”

Other Library Service at Home users say

"Being housebound and an avid reader all my life, I was unable to get to my local library. Library Service at Home has made my life bearable once more. Every day I can sit and read to my heart’s content. Wonderful Service!"

"Gives me opportunity to read. Reading is one of the things I can still do, being disabled. Makes the day more interesting. It's the one thing that makes me feel like I can still do what I used to do."

"I have mobility problems and I am unable to carry weights. Having books brought to me has made a huge difference, ensuring that I can continue to take a full part in my reading groups."

For more information, visit the Library Service at Home webpages.